Chaves Beach: The Jewel of Cape Verde

Getting There

• Car

  If you have a rental car, start your journey from the capital of Maio, Vila do Maio. Head northwest on Avenida de 1 de Maio towards the roundabout. At the roundabout, take the second exit onto Rua de Lisboa. Follow this road as it turns into the main road heading out of the town. Continue straight for about 10 km until you see signs for Chaves Beach. Turn left onto the dirt road that leads to the beach. Parking is available on-site, but be aware that there might be a small fee for parking.

• Public Transportation

  To reach Chaves Beach via public transportation, first make your way to the main bus station in Vila do Maio. Look for 'aluguer' (shared taxis) heading towards the north of the island. Inform the driver that you would like to go to Chaves Beach. The fare is typically around 200 CVE (Cape Verdean Escudos) per person. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on stops along the way. Once you arrive at the designated drop-off point, you may need to walk approximately 1 km down a dirt trail to reach the beach itself.

• Bicycle

  For the more adventurous, renting a bicycle is a great way to explore Maio. Start in Vila do Maio and follow the same route as if you were driving. Along the way, you can enjoy the scenic views of the island. Cycling to Chaves Beach will take about 45 minutes to an hour. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as there are limited shade and facilities along the route.

• Walking

  If you are staying near Chaves Beach, walking is a great option for enjoying the landscape. From Vila do Maio, it is about a 1.5 to 2-hour walk following the main road northwest. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the sun can be quite strong. The walk is scenic, taking you past local flora and fauna, and gives you a chance to experience the island's natural beauty up close.